From the moment you consider Otago Polytechnic, to your child’s arrival on campus, we’re here to help you with any questions or challenges.

Parent information

From the moment you consider Otago Polytechnic, to your child’s arrival on campus, we’re here to help you with any questions or challenges.

Sending your child to a different country to live and study can be a very daunting prospect for a lot of parents.

Rest assured, we take full responsibility for the welfare and safety of your loved one while they’re in our care. New Zealand is a very safe and peaceful country. It has a clean and green environment and a real sense of community. Here your child will enjoy their studies and have an enriching educational experience.

It is our primary concern and responsibility to look after our international students. Otago Polytechnic has agreed to observe and be bound by The Education (Pastoral Care of International Students) Code of Practice 2016, published by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority. Copies of the Code are available from the NZQA website.

Otago Polytechnic has a wealth of experience in tertiary education – with the Dunedin School of Art dating back to 1870 - so you can be confident that you are choosing an excellent educational option for your child. In 2015 the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) gave Otago Polytechnic its highest possible endorsement rating us as "Highly confident in educational performance" and "Highly confident in capability in self assessment".

Internationally-recognised qualifications

International students who want to study at Otago Polytechnic can have confidence that their New Zealand qualifications are an excellent standard and comparable to qualifications from other international tertiary institutions. Many of our graduates go on to pursue careers all over the world, with great success.

Our student services and facilities are extensive and designed to support and enhance student life. We make sure students have access to the best information, advice and individualised support before and during their studies.

Accident insurance

The Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) provides accident insurance for all New Zealand citizens, residents and temporary visitors to New Zealand, but students may still be liable for all other medical and related costs. Further information can be viewed on the ACC website.

Medical and travel insurance

International students must have appropriate and current medical and travel insurance while studying in New Zealand. It is compulsory for all international students studying at Otago Polytechnic to have Unicare travel and medical insurance. Their package is called NZ Student Plan and more details can be found on the Uni-Care website. Our International Admissions Office will arrange this insurance for you and include the cost in your offer of place. Please complete this Medical Declaration if you have a pre-existing condition and send it to Otago Polytechnic with your application.

Otago Polytechnic can arrange Homestay Accommodation for your child with one of our excellent Homestay families. We can also provide information about other accommodation options so they can find a suitable place to live. We provide ongoing accommodation assistance and support. Where your child lives will depend on which campus they go to.